1. P2/M2/D2 DNA Technology
Unit 18: Genetics and Genetic Engineering Assessed by Teresa Greer
Start date: January 15th Hand in date: January 23rd
Purpose
Genetic engineering and gene modification are cutting edge in scientific terms and the
possibilities for these technologies are huge. In this unit students will be examining the
practical methods by which
✓ The techniques behind genetic engineering
✓ Practical ways to manipulate DNA
✓ Investigative opportunities with some of these scientific techniques
Scenario
In a coming assignment we will be examining the controversial subject of genetic engi-
neering and considering whether this is an appropriate science or whether there are seri-
ous ethical concerns around this area. Before you can comment on it, you need to have a
comprehensive understanding of the processes involved in cellular transformation. In this
unit we will be looking at all of the steps involved in genetic engineering, from isolating
and extracting desirable genes to inserting them into the chosen cells.
Task A This provides evidence for
Research and describe the basic techniques of DNA technology including
1. DNA extraction
2. Electrophoresis
3. PCR
4. Cell Transformation
For two of the procedures write a full lab manual including a step by step instructions on
the procedure.
Hand in date January 20th
Task B This provides evidence for
For each of the basic techniques of DNA technology, explain the reasons for key steps in-
volved. You can add this to your outline from task A or do this separately.
Hand in date January 21st
BTEC National Diploma Applied Science DNA Technology

2. DNA Technology
Task C This provides evidence for
For each of the basic techniques in DNA technology, suggest practical limitations and,
where appropriate, suggest how these may be overcome. It may be appropriate here to
discuss the differences between small scale college laboratory DNA technology and those
that are achieved in larger commercial laboratories.
hand in date January 23rd
To achieve a pass grade To achieve a merit To achieve a distinction
the evidence must grade the evidence grade the evidence
show that the learner is must show that the must show that the
able to: learner is able to: learner is able to:
P2 describe the basic M2 for each of the basic D2 for each of the basic
techniques of DNA techniques of DNA techniques in DNA
technology technology, explain the technology, suggest
reasons for key steps practical limitations
and, where appropriate,
suggest how these may
be overcome
Assessed by: Teresa Greer
Internally verified by:
Hand in date: January 23rd
BTEC National Diploma Applied Science DNA technology